Nepal’s gen-Z election: can popular former rapper Balen topple a veteran political heavyweight?

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 5 min read 100% complete by Hannah Ellis-Petersen and Gaurav Pokharel in DamakMarch 3, 2026 at 07:48 AM
Nepal’s gen-Z election: can popular former rapper Balen topple a veteran political heavyweight?

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Nepal's upcoming election features a significant challenge to established political figures. Balen Shah, a popular former rapper and current mayor of Kathmandu, is running against a veteran politician in Damak. Balen gained prominence after a gen-Z uprising against government corruption and social media bans was met with violence. He is seen as a unifying figure for Nepali youth frustrated with the existing political system, which has been plagued by instability and corruption. This election is a test of whether the energy of the youth uprising can translate into lasting political change, or if the old guard will maintain power. The outcome is particularly important to the 46% of the population under 24.

Keywords

nepal election 100% gen-z uprising 90% balen shah 90% political change 70% corruption 70% nepali youth 60% political heavyweight 50% political system 50% governance 40%

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